usually, big time lawyers are well known to all the local judges. The judges know that the good attorney will use every law to their advantage. the judge wants it off his desk as fast as possible (usually). So, when he sees a high powered attorney, deals go a lot smoother. I had a close relative that got popped shoplifting and couldnt afford a lawyer and had to have a public defender (btw, dont ever use them,beg or borrow the money for an attorney) the public defender spent a total of 5 minutes reviewing the case and the judges know this. He said, "oh you will probably get probation and a fine" she did 3 months in county with the biggest fine he could throw at her and she served every day of that 3 months. He didn't allow for good time or work release. dont just pick a lawyer out of the phone book either. Do some research. A good attorney is worth every penny.